should the sproket be easy just to pull of or should it be a tight fit????

im unsure about going to get new sprocket because im unsure if the crankshaft is worn

well i cant see it having play in it at all because it would send the timing out. the crankshaft bolt i took out didnt have and type of thread lock on it.

ive got a similar problem. the freelander was vibrating so took the belt off to find that the crank timing gear was not a tight fit on the crank thus leaving the belt loose. its not as bad as you are saying (1/4 turn) but enough to be able to wiggle the gear on the crankshaft.